Everything you need to know to set up a yes space at home
You may have stumbled upon the concept of the “yes space” while researching practical ways to help your little one build independence, confidence, and curiosity.
But what exactly is a yes space? What are the benefits of setting up a yes space for your baby or toddler? And how can you get started? Keep reading to learn more!
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What is a yes space?
A yes space is simply a safe area in your home, designed with independent play in mind. Here are the main characteristics to keep in mind as you set up a fun and functional yes space for your child…
Child-proofed
This is a fully child-proofed space where you could safely leave your little one unattended — even if you were locked out of the house for a few hours. In other words: If you have to keep reminding your toddler to stop doing something, it’s not a yes space (yet!)
The concept is simple, but it’s important to take care to set up your child’s yes space in a thoughtful way. To start, make sure to address any risks, like rogue cords or outlets, too-small or too-heavy objects, or furniture that should be secured to the wall.
Remember: Safety is key here.
Big or small
A yes space can be any size: As small as a hallway or as large as a whole room. Think about what makes the most sense for your family — and don’t be afraid to make changes as your child grows.
Enclosed
A yes space is always enclosed.
Because the goal is to create a risk-free place to explore, it’s important to block off access to less safe areas. Baby gates are your friend!
Your child’s bedroom or playroom is a natural choice for a yes space. (And if your child sleeps on a floor bed, their room should be a yes space anyway!)
You can also create an enclosed yes space in a common area, like the living room. This can make it easier for you to keep an eye — and ear! — on your baby or toddler while they play.
Part of daily routine
Don’t think of a yes space as somewhere you casually drop off your child every now and then.
It should be a consistent, positive part of your little one’s everyday life.
Think about your family’s daily schedule. When does it make the most sense to encourage your child to spend time there: After breakfast? In the evening, before bedtime?
It’s also a good idea to set aside a few minutes each day to spend time with your little one in their yes space. By doing this on a regular basis, your child learns that they can relax when you’re not immediately available — because you’ll always come back! This is a simple, meaningful way to connect with your child and build trust.
A spine-friendly floor chair can help you stay comfortable while you sit with your child.
Convenient location
Even though a yes space is designed to be 100% safe, it can be nice to know your baby or toddler is within earshot.
This might mean setting up your child’s yes space near the kitchen, living room, laundry room, or home office, depending on your home layout, as well as your family’s unique needs.
Fun & interesting
Limit the number of toys and other materials available at once, so your child doesn’t feel overwhelmed. The magic number is somewhere around 7, but follow your child’s lead if they seem bored (too few options) or unfocused (too many options).
Also consider sensory-rich features that can help make the area more interesting: Is there a window your child can look through? Soft carpet or rug? Artwork displayed where your child can see?
The best materials for your child’s yes space are safe, simple, and engaging. Choose toys and other materials that are…
- Safe: Ask yourself, can this be used unsupervised? Avoid anything heavy enough to cause injury or small enough to be a choking hazard.
- Simple: Look for toys that make your child do the “work,” like blocks, balls, or baby dolls. Skip toys designed to entertain your child (i.e., anything with batteries!)
- Consistent: This is not the time or place for toy rotation. Keeping the same materials available from day to day helps your child’s yes space feel orderly and predictable.
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Why are yes spaces good for babies and toddlers?
Yes spaces benefit little ones and their caregivers. Here’s how…
- Children can explore while caregivers take a break. While it’s great to spend one-on-one time with your child, sometimes you need a break. With a yes space, you can feel confident that your baby or toddler is safe while you tackle some laundry, use the restroom, or drink your tea while it’s still hot.
- Self-guided play is important. Children need time to explore independently, make choices, and follow their interests. Independent play also encourages spontaneous learning – what might your little one discover when they’re given the time, space, and freedom?
Can you set up a yes space outside?
Because you can never guarantee that an outdoor area is 100% safe, you can’t create a true yes space outside. However, you can approximate a yes space if you have an enclosed patio or fenced-in yard.
Depending on your space, this might involve gating off an area just for your child — especially if you have a garden, tool shed, or something else you don’t want your child to get into.
Each time your child plays outside, you should also do a quick sweep of the area to make sure it’s safe.
Keep in mind that, even though outdoor areas can’t be considered genuine yes spaces, playing outside still has tons of benefits for little ones. While self-guided play in a child-proofed area has its time and place, so does supervised risky play. Remember to make time for both!
Want to learn more?
Check out these articles for more info on creating child-friendly spaces in your home…
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